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The 10 Best Places to Visit in Canada
Planning to bite the bullet and planning your next adventure to the great wilderness of Canada? Well, you’re in for a treat! Canada is a smorgasbord of vibrant cities, breath-taking landscapes, and cultures more diverse than a Canadian buffet.
Whether you’re into strolling the cosmopolitan sidewalks, dipping your toes into a past rich with history, or hiking through towering mountains, Canada’s got a little bit (or rather a lot) of everything.
So sit back, buckle in, and let us guide you through our list of top places to visit in Canada’. Spoiler alert: choosing between these stunning destinations won’t be easy, but hey, who said travelling was for the faint-hearted, eh? So read on!
Toronto, Ontario
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/
First stop is Toronto, Canada’s largest city and a place teeming with cultural and modern vibrancy. There’s a reason it’s often compared to New York: it’s hip, it’s trendy, and it’s one skyscraper-filled skyline you won’t forget in a hurry.
Toronto’s got everything from high-speed thrills to low-key chills. Fancy taking a walk on the wild side? Then hop on over to the Toronto Zoo, home to over 5,000 animals representing more than 460 species.
Or, for you thrill-seekers out there, Canada’s Wonderland isn’t too far off, with roller coasters that’ll give your stomach a run for its money. But that’s not all.
Step into the Art Gallery of Ontario, or ‘AGO, as the locals call it, and be amazed by over 95,000 works of art, then chase it with panoramic views from the dizzying heights of the CN Tower.
From towering heights to sprawling natural parks like Toronto Island Park, Toronto’s got a feast for your senses waiting around every corner.
| Local Tip: Boat over to the Toronto Islands. They’re a small chain of islands that provide the best city skyline view and a little peace away from the city bustle. |
Vancouver, British Columbia
There’s no denying it: Vancouver is easy on the eyes. Nestled between mountains and the ocean, it has natural beauty in spades, but that’s just the beginning.
Vancouver’s notorious combo of city and nature gives you the best of both worlds. Take a walk across the thrillingly high Capilano Suspension Bridge, hike Grouse Mountain, or bike around Stanley Park—these spots are an outdoor enthusiast’s dream.
But be sure to pack your swimwear, because those Vancouver beaches are seriously inviting. The city isn’t just there to wow with its outdoorsy side.
There’s a juxtaposition with its urban delights that you can’t miss! Explore the historic Gastown district with its steam clock and boutique shops, or venture into Granville Island for a taste of local culture (and some delectable food) at the Public Market.
| Local Tip: Head to Grouse Mountain at sunset for an enchanting view of the city. Remember, the mountains aren’t just for winter fun! |
Old Montreal, Quebec
Website: https://www.mtl.org/en/explore/neighbourhoods/old-montreal
Old Montreal is steeped in history, and walking through its streets feels like you’ve been magically transported to Europe! This place is famous for its stunning architecture, which dates back as far as the 17th century.
Take a stroll through its centuries-old streets, and I promise you’ll feel the whispers of a bygone era. The iconic Notre-Dame Basilica and the historic Bonsecours Market are just two of the countless gems to discover.
Add to this irresistible Old World charm innovative restaurants offering the finesse of modern cuisine mixed with a healthy dose of tradition and a plethora of boutique shops that’ll satiate even the most shopaholic among you.
All this is nestled in narrow, winding lanes that invite you to lose yourself in their charm.
| Local Tip: For a unique view of the city, hop on one of the horse-drawn carriages, locally called calèches. It’s as charming as it sounds! |
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
The Okanagan Valley of British Columbia is a slice of paradise for all the wine and nature enthusiasts out there. Dubbed Canada’s wine country, the Okanagan is home to over 200 wineries. Not a bad total to aim for, eh?
This place isn’t just about swirling, sniffing, and sipping, although the local wines are really something to write home about.
It’s a place that knows how to do relaxation right, with a whole host of lakes open for a peaceful day by the water’s edge in the warmth of the Canadian summer. What’s more, this isn’t a place that sleeps off winter!
With ski resorts like Big White and Silver Star within a snowball’s throw, you can swoosh down some sparkling white slopes against the backdrop of vineyards for an extra dash of magic.
And let’s not forget the food. This fertile land boosts local farms and markets, offering the freshest farm-to-table experiences around.
| Local Tip: Hit the wine tours in the fall during the grape harvest, locally referred to as the “crush”. You’re in for a treat, we promise! |
Niagara Falls, Ontario
Strap in for an experience that might just leave you breathless. Situated in the charming town of Niagara Falls, Ontario, the thundering falls are a humbling reminder of the sheer power of nature.
Come face-to-face with millions of litres of water cascading down every second. Whether you’re standing on the brink at the edge of the Horseshoe Falls or aboard the famous Hornblower Niagara Cruise, you can’t help but feel a little awestruck.
But don’t let the gushing water keep you from exploring everything else this town has to offer. Be it the Butterfly Conservatory, Clifton Hill (the street of fun!), or the stunning gardens of the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, there’s something for everyone.
Niagara Falls also provides a gateway to wine country. Yeah, you read that right! Local vineyards produce world-class ice wine that’s sweet as nectar and a further sample of Canada’s grape expertise.
| Local Tip: Don’t miss the illumination of the falls at night. It’s a light show that gives Vegas a run for its money! |
Banff National Park, Alberta
Website: https://www.banff.ca/
With rugged mountains, alpine meadows, pristine lakes, and an abundance of wildlife, Banff is nothing short of spectacular. The turquoise-coloured Lake Louise and Moraine Lake will make you question filters.
And the Icefields Parkway nearby, often dubbed one of the most beautiful drives in the world, is an experience that’ll top all your road trip charts. Want to stretch those legs?
Numerous hiking and biking trails are waiting for you. Or get a different perspective from the Banff Gondola, which takes you high above Sulphur Mountain.
This national park, though, is more than just a pretty face. Its town is filled with exquisite dining options, a vibrant arts scene, museums, and luxurious spas for when you want to wind down after a long day of exploring.
| Local Tip: For an iconic picture, catch the sunrise at either Lake Louise or Moraine Lake. The reflections are truly stunning! |
Whistler, British Columbia
Website: https://www.whistler.com/
Now, whisper ‘Whistler’ to any snow sports enthusiast and watch the stars twinkle in their eyes. Yes, it’s that good—actually, it’s fantastic!
Whistler is internationally renowned as North America’s largest ski resort, but it’s also all the rage during the summer. Think mile-high peaks, turquoise glacier-fed lakes, and hiking trails that look more like postcards than parts of the real world.
The adventurous aren’t just treated to skiing or snowboarding. Scale the heights on a zipline, test your mettle on some staggering mountain bike trails, or take a swing at a round of golf. It’s an all-year-round playground!
And when it’s time to rejuvenate, the village offers world-class dining, super-relaxing spas, and vibrant nightlife—a perfect ending to the fun-filled days.
| Local Tip: Après-ski is a serious affair in Whistler. It’s a cultural must-do. Cheers! |
Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia
Website: https://www.peggyscoveregion.com/
From the alpine charm of Whistler, let’s jaunt to the eastern coast of Canada to the mesmerising Peggy’s Cove in Nova Scotia. It’s home to probably the most photographed lighthouse in Canada.
The lighthouse’s charm aside, Peggy’s Cove is a sweet, dreamy, picturesque little fishing village. Time seems to slow as you wander between cottages that host artist studios, rustic shops, and seafood restaurants serving just-off-the-boat lobster!
The gloss of the modern world hasn’t quite reached here, and boy, does it work to its advantage! iconic boats resting peacefully in a harbour, weatherworn homes painted in hues that’ll make a rainbow jealous—it’s got a quiet charm stamped all over it.
And if that leaves you wanting more, the nearby SwissAir Memorial and the DeGarthe Art Gallery, featuring carvings and paintings dedicated to fishermen, are sure to get you hooked on this charming hamlet.
| Local Tip: Morning or evening are the best times to photograph the lighthouse; those sunrise and sunset hues are downright magic! |
Calgary, Alberta
Calgary, a city where skyscrapers meet the Stampede, is often dubbed Cowtown. It’s got the swank of a modern metropolis and the spirit of the Wild West. Excited yet?
The Calgary Stampede isn’t called ‘The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth’ for nothing! Think rodeos, fairs, concerts, and agricultural competitions.
And this isn’t just a show; the entire city of Calgary gets in the mood with country attire and community pancake breakfasts. But even after the dust of the Stampede settles down, there’s a lot this city has to offer.
Conquer the Calgary Tower for a head-spinning view of the urban jungle. Dive into history at Fort Calgary or get hands-on at the Telus Spark Science Center. This place is also considered a gateway to the Rockies, with adventures waiting just outside the city.
Plus, the food here is so good, you’ll probably want to extend your stay just for another round of dining.
| Local Tip: On the first Thursday of every month, many of Calgary’s art galleries stay open late, and admission is free or discounted. |
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Website: https://www.halifax.ca/
Halifax is a city where salty sea air mingles with history and an endearing urban spirit. Perched on the edge of the natural harbour, history here is as vast as the Atlantic.
Wander the walls of the Citadel National Historic Site and drop by to say, ‘How ya doing? ‘ to the bustling waterfront, dotted with ships, restaurants, boutiques, and, of course, the famed Maritime Museum.
Halifax holds both a city’s buzz and a small town’s charm. A walk along the historic downtown will treat you to 18th-century architecture, lively pubs, and the best seafood this side of the Atlantic!
And let’s not forget Halifax’s location. Beautiful beaches, picturesque Peggy’s Cove, and the historic town of Lunenburg are just a drive away.
| Local Tip: Try the local donair; it’s a signature dish unique to Halifax’s culinary scene and a must-try. |
